In the most basic sense Design Thinking is a process which uses empathy to solve problems that arise. You begin with empathizing, learning about the audience for whom you are desiging with observation and interviewing. "Who is my user? What matters to this person?" You then move onto the define step, creating a point of view that is based on user needs and insights. "What are their needs?" The third step is ideation, brainstorming and coming up with as many creative solutions as possible. Wild ideas are always encouraged! Next is the prototyping stage. Here you build a representation of one or more of your ideas to show to others. "How can I show my idea?" This is just a rough draft of your idea. Finally, you test your prototype. Sharing your prototyped idea with your original user for feedback.
Design Thinking
The "Ah-ha Moment"
When you go through the design process you come across a point when you say "ah-ha!" This moment is critical to the Design process. The "ah-ha moment" usually follows with a path which leads you to a solution. This moment is like the final puzzle piece, everything comes together after your "ah-ha moment." Not everyone experiences a moment like this every time they go through the Design process but when you do, you know it.
